National Parade on the Flag Day of the Finnish Defence Forces

The national parade on the Flag Day of the Finnish Defence Forces will be held on Wednesday, 4 June 2025 in Kuopio. Karelia Air Wing, in cooperation with the City of Kuopio, is responsible for organising the event. The parade is part of Kuopio’s celebrations marking its 250th anniversary this year.

Troops participating in the parade represent the Air Force, Army, Navy, Border Guard, veterans’ and national defence organisations, as well as emergency and security service partners. Approximately 1,500 personnel, over 40 vehicles, and about 15 aircraft will take part. All Air Force units will be represented.

In addition to the review of troops and pass-in-review, the programme will include flight demonstrations by Hornet multi-role fighters and the aerobatic team Midnight Hawks, the MILjazz 2025 Defence Forces summer tour concert, and a static display at the harbour area. All events are free of charge.

The parade will be reviewed by Commander of the Finnish Air Force Major General Timo Herranen. A field devotional service will be conducted by Chief of Air Force Chaplains Janne Huikko, and the parade commander will be Brigadier General Aki Puustinen, Chief of Staff Air Force Command Finland.

Preliminary program for the Parade Day

Wednesday 4.6.2025

Official flag-raising ceremony, Harbour Square 08.00 – 08.15
Wreath-laying ceremony, Sankaripuisto Park 09.00 – 09.15
Service, Cathedral Church 10.00 – 11.00
Parade review, Väinölänniemi Park 12.00 – 12.30
Parade and flyover, Satamakatu Street 13.15 – 13.45
Equipment demonstration, harbour area 09.00 – 16.00
MILjazz 2025 concert, Harbour Square 18.00 – 20.30